Russia is an active member of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). We uphold the principles and values of the World Expo movement. Our country has participated in Expo exhibitions for over 160 years. Russian expositions regularly receive medals, certificates, and awards in various categories. Unfortunately, this high-profile event has never been held in Russia.

In May 2017, Russia submitted to the BIE the candidature of Ekaterinburg for World Expo 2025. I am convinced that our bid has all the chances to succeed.

The Russian candidate enjoys an optimum combination of public and state support. Ekaterinburg is Russia's fourth largest city, an important and dynamic economic, scientific, educational and cultural centre. Due to its unique location – on the borderline between the European and Asian parts of the country – the city has become an important transport hub.

Ekaterinburg has all the necessary infrastructural and organizational resources to successfully host Expo 2025. I would like to remind you that the city has on numerous occasions hosted large-scale international events, including Russia-EU, BRICS, SCO summits, and this summer – the FIFA World Cup matches. It goes without saying that our ongoing priority is providing comfortable stay and security to our foreign guests.

The theme of the Russian bid – Changing the World: Innovations and Better Life for Future Generations – is highly relevant. We invite the global community to participate in a broad discussion on the impact of innovations on all aspects of human activities, including economy, education, health care, and culture.

Expo 2025 will provide foreign participants with the opportunity to demonstrate their latest scientific and technical achievements, share their plans on economic, technological, and scientific development. I am confident that their active participation in the Expo will open up additional possibilities to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation in trade, industry, and agriculture, contribute to promoting humanitarian ties and strengthening the global climate of trust and mutual understanding.

We look forward to receiving support for Ekaterinburg during the upcoming elections at the General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions in Paris next November.